While you might not own one yourself, a clear image likely pops into your head when hearing the term “ugly Christmas sweater.” It’s likely found on the rack of a secondhand clothing store, made out of bright green and red yarn, and boasting laughable images or mismatched patterns. It may even be adorned with bells or pom poms to raise the eyebrows of friends and family. So where did this silly tradition get its start? Bundle up with a heartwarming history lesson.

How Did the Ugly Christmas Sweater Craze Start?

Film & Television

While sweaters had long been a winter wardrobe staple, the 1980s saw the first “ugly Christmas sweaters.” From TV comedies like The Cosby Show to holiday films like National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, these cardigans began as comedic elements in the entertainment industry.

Soon, however, clothing manufacturers took advantage of the opportunity and mass-produced “jingle bell sweaters.” In the late 90s and early aughts, the trend returned in the romantic comedy Bridget Jones’s Diary, as characters Renée Zellweger and Colin Firth donned embarrassingly festive sweaters of their own.

Ugly Sweater Parties

A year after that film’s release, the first Ugly Christmas Sweater party was held in Vancouver, Canada. Co-founders Jordan Birch and Chris Boyd held the legendary fete in the Commodore Ballroom.

After trademarking the phrases “ugly Christmas sweater” and “ugly Christmas sweater party,” they continued to hold the event annually, using it to raise money for the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Canada. This festive gathering trickled down to the masses, until office Christmas parties, fraternity events, and family gatherings followed suit. 

Conversation Starter

Even if your upcoming family reunion doesn’t mention a dress code, ugly Christmas sweaters remain a fun and cost-effective way to spread the holiday cheer. Whether you knit your own or find one at a secondhand clothing store, these garments make for the ultimate conversation starter. If you’re feeling silly, just remind yourself that these eye-catching sweaters were proudly—if a little ironically—worn by movie stars.

If you’re about to go shopping for a new ugly Christmas sweater to wear to your office party or family get-together, drop off your old one at Amclex in Miami, FL. This environmentally friendly company accepts vintage and secondhand clothing then packs and ships it to developing countries, where they are resold at discounted prices. In addition to eliminating landfill waste, this allows disadvantaged communities to find affordable additions to their wardrobes. To learn more about their work, visit the website or call (305) 634-1757 today.